Capitals: Why There Should Be an NHL Version of “The Last Dance” Starring Alexander Ovechkin

Summer of Ovi and Other Stories

Of course, if someone is labelled as a legend, there have to be stories to back up why he deserves this bold title. There are also just so many stories to be told about Ovi throughout his life and career that would entertain hockey fans beyond belief. There would also be some that would make things more emotional that would help the casual fan relate to Ovi.

The series could discuss his upbringing in Russia, and how his brother, Sergei, was the one who really introduced Alex to the game of hockey. It could then dive into the death of Sergei and how it affected Ovechkin and drove him even harder towards hockey.

Then, after showcasing the draft, it would talk about his rookie year and we could hear from unfiltered teammates, coaches and opposing players just how dominant Ovi was when he entered the league. In addition, he and other teammates could tell funny stories about Ovechkin adjusting to the NHL life.

Plus, we could hear about all the wild and crazy stories from him going out with the team back in the early days of the Ovechkin era, which is fun for all hockey fans because it is a side of the athlete’s life that is often unheard about.

Eventually, the series would cover Ovechkin’s and D.C.’s first Stanley Cup, and the celebration that ensued. After discussing how emotional it was for him to get his first ring, the series could shift to a much lighter tone when discussing the “Summer of Ovi,” when he spent the Summer celebrating the Cup victory in the public eye. Behind-the-scenes stories of that celebration alone would be legendary, and enough for any hockey fan to watch the series.

Covering one of Ovi’s last years in the league would allow for him to reflect on his time spent in the NHL and would be a great, emotional base for the series – much like with “The Last Dance.”

These are just some ideas I had banging around in my head that I wanted to express to the hockey world because I think everyone can agree: Everyone loves Ovi.

Even if you are a Penguins fan and hate Ovi, you like Ovi. He has been around the league long enough, been dominant enough and still maintained his personality for long enough that even those who despised Ovechkin have come around and are now along for the ride as he hunts down scoring record after scoring record.

I think it is a no-brainer that if they decide that they are doing a docuseries similar to “The Last Dance” about a hockey player, Ovechkin is the guy who should be covered. I think the better question is would you watch it all in one day or two?